Isla Mujeres Tour with Open Bar Food and Snorkeling

Thinking about a day trip to Isla Mujeres from Cancun? This combo tour offers a mix of sailing, snorkeling, beach relaxation, and lively onboard entertainment. It’s a popular choice, with over 31 reviews and a solid 4-star rating, that promises value for money and a chance to see some stunning Caribbean sights. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned island hopper, this adventure aims to pack in plenty of experiences without breaking the bank.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the two-level catamaran crossing with open bar and party atmosphere, and second, the free time on Isla Mujeres to explore or unwind at your own pace. However, it’s worth noting that some travelers have found the food less appealing and the instructions a bit confusing — so knowing what to expect can help you decide if this trip suits your style. Ideal for those who want an active, social day with lots of options, but perhaps not for travelers seeking a quiet, gourmet experience.

Key Points

• Full-day experience blending sailing, snorkeling, and island exploration.
• Open bar and buffet food included, with lively onboard contests and parties.
• Flexible free time on Isla Mujeres for personal sightseeing or relaxing.
• Transportation options available, including ground pickup for convenience.
• Some reviews mention issues with instructions or food quality, so manage expectations.
• Affordable price point makes it an accessible way to see multiple highlights in one day.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Playa del Carmen’s Coco Bongo

You’ll kick off your adventure at the Coco Bongo in Playa del Carmen, a famous nightlife spot, which makes for an easy meeting point if you’re already in the area. The tour begins around 11:30 am, giving you plenty of daylight to enjoy. The initial hour at Coco Bongo’s may seem unexpected but serves as a warm-up to the day ahead. It’s a free ticketed stop, and from there, you’ll board a two-level catamaran.

Sailing on the Nichupte Lagoon and Open Bar Fun

Departing from Plaza La Isla, the journey takes you through the Nichupte lagoon channel, a scenic waterway that sets a relaxed tone for the day. Here, you can start enjoying the open bar onboard, which is a major highlight. Multiple reviews praise the lively atmosphere — some mention the onboard contests and party vibe as the best part. If you’re a fan of social, energetic trips, you’ll find this aspect a major plus.

Snorkeling in the Underwater Statues and Reef

One of the tour’s unique features is snorkeling around underwater statues and reef. This is an experience that stands out; you get a chance to see marine life and perhaps some artistic underwater sculptures. As one reviewer put it, “Snorkeling was great and we were well looked after.” This activity, lasting about 40 minutes, is accessible for most travelers, and snorkeling gear is provided, making it easy even if you’re new to it.

Lunch at the Beach Club

After the water activities, the crew takes you to a beach club on Isla Mujeres where a buffet lunch awaits. The food is regional, with plenty of options, and you can enjoy it with an open bar in a relaxed setting. The inclusion of buffet-style regional cuisine gives you a taste of local flavors, though some reviews mention the food’s quality as mediocre or lacking. Still, most agree it’s satisfying enough after a morning of fun.

Free Time on Isla Mujeres

You’re granted roughly two hours to explore. The island offers charming streets, shops, beaches, or just a quiet spot to soak up the sun. This is your chance to walk around the island’s center, visit a beach, or just relax. Many travelers appreciate this free time as an opportunity to set their own pace and discover the island beyond the tour stops.

Sunset Cruise and Onboard Party

On the return trip, the atmosphere ramps up with sunset views, onboard parties, and contests. This part, lasting about an hour and a half, is often cited as the most vibrant segment. Watch the sky change color while enjoying drinks and music with fellow travelers — a lively, memorable way to end the day.

Return to Playa del Carmen at Coco Bongo

The tour wraps up back at Playa del Carmen around 9 pm, completing a roughly nine-hour journey. The return is straightforward, with the option for ground transportation at an additional cost, which many find convenient.

What We Love About This Tour

The highlights are the entertainment onboard and the scenic sailing. The crew is often praised for being friendly and engaging, making the trip feel inclusive and lively. The snorkeling adds a memorable touch — seeing underwater statues and vibrant reef life is a unique experience for first-timers and snorkelers alike.

Plus, the value for money is impressive. At just $25 per person, the tour packs in multiple experiences: sailing, snorkeling, dining, and island exploration, which are often separated into multiple outings at a higher cost elsewhere. The inclusion of food and open bar keeps the trip relaxed and sociable.

A Few Caveats to Keep in Mind

Some travelers have mentioned less-than-ideal meals at the beach club, describing the buffet as “horrendous” or mediocre. If you’re a foodie with high standards, you might want to consider this. Also, there are reports of poor instructions or communication, especially for non-Spanish speakers. One reviewer struggled to find the meeting point, so arriving early and checking the details beforehand can save hassle.

The terms of taxes and fees are not included in the price; a mandatory $1000 MXN payment is required upon boarding, which can catch some travelers off guard. Plus, optional ground transportation is available at $15 USD per person, a worthwhile add-on if you prefer a hassle-free pickup.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip suits adventurous travelers who enjoy social, energetic environments and don’t mind a bit of chaos or unpredictability. If you’re looking for a full-day experience packed with sailing, snorkeling, and island vibes, it’s a solid choice. It’s especially good for those traveling on a budget, as it offers a lot for a low price.

However, if you prefer gourmet food or quiet sightseeing, you might find the experience a little too lively or the food quality lacking. Also, those uncomfortable with last-minute instructions or minor logistical hiccups should weigh that in their decision.

Final Thoughts

This Isla Mujeres tour offers a cost-effective, lively day that combines sailing, snorkeling, and island exploration into one package. It’s best suited for travelers who want a fun, social experience with lots of activities and a laid-back party vibe. The inclusion of open bar, buffet lunch, and free time makes it a convenient way to see a lot in just one day.

While some reviews mention issues with food quality and communication, the majority find it a worthwhile adventure — especially for the price. The chance to enjoy snorkeling among underwater statues, relax at the beach, and watch a sunset from the sea adds up to a memorable day.

If you’re ready for a full-throttle Caribbean outing that’s lively, scenic, and affordable, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Just prep for a lively crowd, keep your expectations in check regarding the meals, and you’ll likely have a fun, authentic experience.

FAQ

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is offered as an option. If you choose the ground transportation service, it’s $15 USD per person with coordination via WhatsApp. Otherwise, your meeting point is at La Isla Cancun in Playa del Carmen.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour departs from “La Isla Cancun,” located at Blvd. Kukulcan km 12.5, Zona Hotelera. The starting time is approximately 11:30 am.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, ending back at the original meeting point around 9 pm.

Are the activities suitable for non-swimmers?
Yes, snorkeling is generally accessible for most, as gear is provided and the activity is about viewing marine life, not swimming deep. However, always inform staff if you’re uncomfortable.

What should I bring?
Bring sun protection like sunscreen and a hat, swimwear, a towel, and some cash for souvenirs or optional extras. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but you might want your own mask if you’re picky.

Is food included?
Yes, a regional buffet lunch and open bar are included in the beach club stop.

What about the taxes and fees?
A mandatory tax of 1000 MXN per person is payable upon boarding, which is not included in the tour price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start. Refunds are issued if canceled in time, and bad weather may lead to rescheduling or full refunds.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, affordable way to experience Isla Mujeres’s highlights with plenty of social fun and scenic views. Perfect for travelers seeking a memorable Caribbean day with friends, drinks, and tropical vibes.